Question

The Declaration of August 20, 1917 was welcomed by the Early Nationalists as the Magna Carta of India. In this context, answer the following:
(a) What prompted the August Declaration?
(b) What were the essential features of the August Declaration?
(c) How did the Indians react to the August Declaration?

Answer 1

a) On 20th August 1917, Montagu presented the historic August declaration, in the British Parliament. This declaration proposed the increased participation of Indians in the administration and the development of self-governing institutions in India.

b) The main feature of August Declaration was Increasing association of Indians in every branch of administration, and the Gradual development of self governing institutions with a view to the progressive realization of responsible governments in India as an Integral part of the British Empire.

c) The nationalists criticized it, as it lacked their legitimate expectations. The declaration was criticized in the December 1917 Calcutta session, in which Annie Besant was president.